World Menstrual Hygiene Day: Improving sanitary facilities in schools recommended (An association)

Kinshasa, May 28^th, 2025 (CPA).- Improving sanitary facilities in schools to provide girls in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) with a clean space during their periods has been recommended on Wednesday in Kinshasa during an interview with CPA. « We are calling on the relevant authorities we are making a clear appeal to improve sanitary facilities in schools, hospitals and public places; to integrate menstrual hygiene into public health and education policies; and to facilitate free or low-cost access to menstrual products, » has said Deborah Yamusa, coordinator of the Coordination of Support for Women’s NGOs/Kinshasa (CAOFE). On World Menstrual Hygiene Day, celebrated on May 28^th of each year, she has addressed a message to girls and women. « To all women and girls, we send a strong message: your periods should never be a source of shame, a taboo or an obstacle to your fulfilment. It is natural, normal and a sign of life, » she has said. The CAOFE coordinator has pointed out that investing in this practice protects women’s health from some diseases, inviting women to break the silence, claim their right to menstrual dignity and health, and demand information on this issue. She has also called on the authorities to organise inclusive information campaigns on menstrual hygiene to combat the stigma faced by some women. CAOFE, a Congolese organisation created in 2012, works to promote, protect and defend the rights of women, girls, children and young people through support for women’s organisations, training, advocacy and community action. This year’s World Menstrual Hygiene Day is themed ‘Together for a world that respects the rules.’ It aims to highlight the challenges related to menstrual hygiene and promote access to the products, education and infrastructure necessary for dignified menstrual hygiene.